Wireless communication device management

ABSTRACT

A method and system that limits the use of a communication device present in an area controlled by an intelligent controller. The intelligent controller detects any present communication devices in the area and conducts an inventory providing information about each detected device. The intelligent controller compares that information to a standard of use data, which specifies the conditions need to be present for allowing the usage of a communication device. If such conditions are not met, the intelligent controller sends commands to the communication device to restrict its functionality. Else if, the intelligent controller is incapable of restricting the communication device, it can notify authorities of unauthorized usage of a communication device in the restricted area.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This continuation application claims the benefit of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 11/156,237, filed Jun. 17, 2005, which is hereinincorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to the area of wireless communication and,in particular, to third party management of wireless devices.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The use of wireless devices has increased dramatically within the lastdecade. Individuals and business entities are in constant communicationvia wireless networks through devices such as cellular telephones,PDA's, hybrid cellular telephones/PDA's, and computers. The ability toeasily communicate with others has caused many individuals to develophabits of using these devices at various locations. However, some usesof wireless communication devices are disturbing to the public,interfering with various sensitive electronics. In the most extremecases, this interference can be life threatening.

To restrict this interference, many different mechanisms have beenproposed. For instance, after various studies, many U.S. jurisdictionshave prohibited cell phone usage while operating a vehicle because thestudies indicated that operating a cell phone is a distraction to thedriver. The driver's attention becomes focused on operating the deviceand talking into it rather than the traffic and other driving conditionsin her surroundings.

Many technological advances have led to developments to correct theseproblems. Some of these advances are voice recognition units,speakerphone components, hands-free devices, Bluetooth-enabled devices,and earpieces. However, such devises do not monitor nor prevent the useof cellular telephones.

Concurrently, theaters, restaurants, churches and schools began toregulate the use of cellular telephones since cellular communicationscan be a nuisance. One approach to solve this problem was the creationof cell phone silencers. Such devices communicate with cellular phoneswithin the area and turn down their ringers. However, this system stilldoes not prevent the use of a cellular phone. Rather, it prohibits acell phone from ringing.

In hospitals and airplanes the use of wireless communication devicesinterferes with various sensitive electronics, such as electronicmonitoring equipment. Cellular phone detection products were developedto detect the presence of cellular phones and send an alarm to the user.However, such systems do not strictly prohibit the use of a cellularphone since a user need not cooperate. Intel has developed a system foruse in an airplane. The system uses Bluetooth technology to detect anddetermine the type of electronic devices present and subsequentlynotifies the crew. Further, the system can send a “shutdown command” tothe electronic device which automatically turns the device off. Whileuseful, the system unnecessarily disables the electronic devices fromuse.

Thus, methods for interrupting transmitted and received signals fromcommunication devices are well known. Most of these devices simplydistort, revert, block, or otherwise manipulate the signal. One devicecurrently being used in Europe is called a “Jammer,” which simply blockssignals centered on frequencies used by the communication device. Whenin use, the communication device appears to have no signal. However, allfrequencies within a predetermined area up to 30 feet are blocked. Noemergency numbers can be dialed or received, which creates an unsafesituation. In addition, Jammers are currently illegal in the UnitedStates.

In order to overcome the problem of non-selective blocking, an“Interceptor” is often used. Instead of completely blocking the signalin a specified area, incoming calls are diverted to a user's voicemailwhile outgoing calls are blocked. An exception can be made for emergencynumbers. However, these emergency numbers need to be pre-programmedwithin a specific area of use. In addition, the Interceptor has tocommunicate with a proximate cellular tower to maintain functionality.

Consequently, methods and systems have been developed to incorporatejamming technology into vehicles and/or communication devices. Onemethod electrically connects a jamming device to the transmission of acar in order to render the communication device “on” while the vehicleis in “Park,” or “off” when the vehicle is in a gear permittingmovement. Further development in this field, incorporates additionalcircuitry and components into the vehicle and communication device whichallows for more versatility and functionality of the communicationdevice. These methods and systems selectively control the functions ofthe communication device. However, these functions are determined bypredetermined, specified parameters. For instance, these conditionsmight include times when the car is moving at or above a certain speed;when the car is not in “Park”; when pressure is sensed on the drivers'seat; and/or when the conditions monitored within the car are suitablefor driving.

In order to determine the existence of one of the aforementionedconditions, many electronic devices are used. Infrared devices, wirelesscomponents, and many other types of sensors are used to determine thefunctionality of a communication device. For example, the sensor orsensors can detect signals to and/or from the communication device andeither (i) disable it when a first condition is present, or (ii) turn itoff when a second condition is present. However, this system isexpensive to implement because it requires circuitry in the phone, inthe vehicle, and in any other area for use. In addition, this type ofsystem does not allow passengers within the vehicle or other individualswithin a given area to use their cellular devices. Consequently, theentire vehicle becomes a “dead” zone.

Therefore, there is a clear need for a method and system in which theoperation of a communication device is selectively controlled, yetmaintains efficiency, effectiveness, and simplicity.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The current invention has capabilities that improve both the field andto the prior art. The system can improve current transit conditions andenforce current laws and regulations. On the other hand, the inventionallows for an individual's continual use of his or her communicationdevice, in compliance with standards of safety and law. The invention iscapable of activation and deactivation dependent on many factors thatmight include the jurisdiction of its location, emergency situations,use of a peripheral device, and the like.

One object of the present invention is to restrict the usage ofcommunication devices in a restricted area.

Another object of the present invention is to disable transmittingfunctioning of the communication device while permitting the usage ofother functioning.

Another object of the present invention is to restrict the usage of acommunication device in a vehicle.

Another object of the present invention is the use of a cellular towerto communicate with the intelligent controller present in the vehiclerestricting the usage of a communication device.

Another object of the present invention is to allow the passengers ofthe vehicle the usage of communication devices while the driver isrestricted.

Another object of the present invention is to allow the drive the usageof a communication device while the vehicle is in park.

Another object of the present invention is to allow the drive of thevehicle the usage of a communication device while the communicationdevice is connected to a hands free peripheral.

Another object of the present invention is to lock the key functions ofa communication device and use voice recognition technology while in avehicle.

Another object of the present invention is to issue citations to thecommunication device operator upon non compliance.

Another object of the present invention is to discourage tampering,disablement, or removal of the intelligent controller used to restrictthe usage of a communication device.

Another object of the present invention is to restrict the usage of acommunication device in an airplane.

Another object of the present invention is to provide and charge for alocal network access in an airplane to restrict the usage of acommunication device with an outside network.

Another object of the present invention is to use a display screen todisplay detected communication devices present in the restricted area.

Another object of the present invention is to restrict the usage of acommunication device in a building or an event environment.

The present invention comprises a system for communication devicemanagement within a vehicle. Means are provided for detectingcommunication devices in an area within the vehicle. Means are providedfor recognizing the communication devices. And an intelligent controlleris provides comprising a standard of use data and means for controllingthe functions of the communication devices, wherein the detection meansand the recognition means are associated with the intelligentcontroller.

The communication device can be, but is not limited to, a cellulartelephone, personal computer, PDA, pocket computer, and hybrid device.The controlling means can disable a transmitter, power, processor,and/or memory associated with the communication devices. Alternatively,it can disrupt incoming signals and/or transmitting signals associatedwith the communication devices. Preferably, the area within the vehiclecomprises an area associated with an operator of the vehicle, while thecommunication device is associated with the operator of the vehicle.

The intelligent controller can be located within a door, console,steering wheel, ceiling, and/or floor of said vehicle. The intelligentcontroller can communicate with an outside source such as but notlimited to a cellular tower, a radio transmitters, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, andtoll tag readers. Additionally, the intelligent controller can comprisesa positioning unit capable of determining the location of the vehicleand communicate the determined location to authorities using the outsidesource. Further, the intelligent controller can notify authorities iftampered with using the outside source. The intelligent controller cancomprise vehicle information and communicate the vehicle information tothe outside source. The intelligent controller can provide a warning(e.g. audio signal, an alarm, and a visual signal) to an operator of thevehicle when the controlling means is unable to control thecommunication device and issue a citation to a registered user of thecommunication device or to a registered operator of the vehicle after apredetermined number of warnings. The intelligent controller can beconnected to a transmission of the vehicle, wherein the standard of usedata can prohibit the use communication devices when the transmission isin drive.

The standard of use data can be stored in the intelligent controller orcan be fed from an outside source. The standard of use data can restrictonly the use of cellular devices within an area of the vehicle. Standardof use data can allow the use of the cellular devices when a specifiednumber is entered into said cellular device such as an emergencytelephone number or when the cellular device is connected to aperipheral device. The specified number can be communicated to thecellular device via the intelligent controller wherein the specifiednumber is pre-programmed or is communicated to the intelligentcontroller via an outside source.

The present invention further comprises a system for communicationdevice management within monitored area such as an airplane, building,hospital, movie theater, restaurant, church, school, conference center,casino, government building, event, and government event. Means areprovided detecting communication devices in the monitored area. Meansare provided for recognizing the communication devices. And anintelligent controller is provided comprising a standard of use data andmeans for controlling the functions of the communication devices,wherein the detection means and the recognition means are associatedwith the intelligent controller.

Multiple detecting means can be located within the monitored area. Acommunication device can be, but is not limited to, a cellulartelephone, personal computer, PDA, pocket computer, and a hybrid device.The controlling means can disable a transmitter, power, processor,and/or memory associated with the communication device or can disruptincoming signals or transmitting signals associated with said at leastone communication device. Standard of use data is stored in theintelligent controller.

The intelligent controller can further comprise a positioning unitcapable of determining the location of the communication device in themonitored area. The intelligent controller can communicate a warningsignal (e.g. an audio signal, an alarm, and a visual signal) to thecommunication device when the controlling means is unable to control thefunctions of the communication device, and further issue a citation tothe user of the communication device after a predetermined number ofwarnings. Additionally, the intelligent controller can comprise adisplay unit which provides information (e.g. recognized type, operatingstatus, and number of detected communication devices) to personnel thatmonitor the area. The intelligent controller can further comprise alocal network, connect a selected communication device to the localnetwork, and charge the user of the communication device for using thelocal network.

A method is also provided for communication device management withinmonitored area such as an airplane, building, hospital, movie theater,restaurant, church, school, conference center, casino, governmentbuilding, event, and government event. The method includes the steps ofdetecting communication devices in the monitored area, recognizing thecommunication devices, providing information about the communicationdevices, comparing the information to a standard of use data, andcontrolling the functions of the communication devices, wherein thestandard of use data determines the controlling the functions of thecommunication devices.

The method can further comprise the steps of displaying the informationto personnel that monitor the area, communicating a warning signal to acommunication device when the controlling the functions of thecommunication device is ineffective, and issuing a citation to a user ofthe communication device after a predetermined number of warnings.

Additionally, controlling the functions the communication devicecomprises the steps of disabling a transmitter, power, processor, and/ormemory associated with the communication device, or disrupting incomingsignals or transmitting signals associated with said at least onecommunication device. Further, controlling the functions of thecommunication device comprises connecting a selected communicationdevice to a local network and charging for using said local network.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A further understanding of the present invention can be obtained byreference to preferred embodiments as set forth in the illustrations ofthe accompanying drawings. Although the illustrated embodiments aremerely exemplary of systems for carrying out the present invention, boththe organization and method of operation of the invention, in general,together with further objectives and advantages thereof, may be moreeasily understood by reference to the drawings and the followingdescription. The drawings are not intended to limit the scope of thisinvention, which is set forth with particularity in the claims asappended or as subsequently amended, but merely to clarify and exemplifythe specific methods and instrumentalities disclosed.

FIG. 1A: depicts an illustration of the interaction of the majorcomponents of communication devices and the intelligent controller, inaccordance with the present invention.

FIG. 1B: Depicts a flow diagram of process steps executed by theintelligent controller of FIG. 1A, in accordance with the presentinvention.

FIG. 2A: Depicts the integration of the intelligent controller in avehicle, in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 2B: Depicts an internal view of a vehicle with the intelligentcontroller activated and deactivated with the transmission, inaccordance with the present invention.

FIG. 2C: Depicts an internal view of a vehicle illustrating apre-determined area where the usage of a communication device isrestricted, in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 3A: Depicts a flow diagram of process steps an intelligentcontrolled performs to restrict the usage of a communication device in avehicle, in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 3B: Depicts a flow diagram of FIG. 3A with addition of a hands freedevice allowing the usage of a communication device in a vehicle, inaccordance with the present invention.

FIG. 4: Depicts various hands free devices allowing the usage of acommunication device in a vehicle, in accordance with the presentinvention.

FIG. 5: Depicts the communication of the intelligent controller with acellular tower, in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 6: Depicts the integration of the intelligent controller in anairplane, in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 7A: Depicts a flow diagram of process steps an intelligentcontrolled performs to restrict the usage of a communication device inan airplane, in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 7B: Depicts a flow diagram which allows the usage of acommunication device on a local network, in accordance with the presentinvention.

FIG. 8: Depicts a display screen displaying information provided by theintelligent controller, in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 9: Depicts the integration of the intelligent controller in abuilding or an even environment, in accordance with the presentinvention.

FIG. 10: Depicts a flow diagram of process steps an intelligentcontrolled performs to restrict the usage of a communication device in abuilding or an even environment, in accordance with the presentinvention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The following detailed description is intended to merely provide afurther understanding of the present invention. This description ismerely provided to clarify the present invention, however, it will berecognized by one skilled in the art that the description of the presentinvention provided herein are not intended to limit the scope of theinvention. Consequently, well known methods, procedures, and substancesfor carrying out the objectives of the present invention areincorporated herein but have not been described in detail as not tounnecessarily obscure aspects of the present invention.

The present invention comprises an intelligent controller (hereinafter“IC”) device 100 capable of communicating and controlling wirelesscommunication devices (hereinafter “WCD”) 101 located within area 103 asseen in FIG. 1A. The IC device 100 can be implemented in various formsand can contain various features and elements, including a memory means,a processor, an IR sensor, RF frequency converter,modulator/demodulator, frequency synthesizer, multiplier, transceiver,or the like. The IC device 100 provides a signal that controls thefunctionality of the WCD 101 such as controlling the states of powersource 104, processor 105, transmitter 106, memory 107, or combinationthereof. The WCD 101 can employ a plurality of forms, including but notlimited to a cellular telephone, a PDA, a hybrid device, a pocketcomputer, a personal computer, or the like.

In use, the IC device 100 detects all the WCD's 101 present in area 103,as seen in process 110 of FIG. 1B. The IC device 100 can employ a radiosensor to detect signals emitted from the WCD's 101. The detection rangeis controlled by proximity sensors which measure signal strengths andcompare them to a set value of the weakest signal strength for aparticular area. All the measured signal strengths that fall within suchset value will be acknowledged by the IC device 100, while measuredsignal strengths that fall below such set value will be disregarded bythe IC device 100. The IC device 100 will then conduct an inventory inprocess 111 of all the detected WCD's 101. The inventory processincludes recording and temporarily storing all possibly knowninformation about the detected WCD's 101. The information may includebut not limited to the type, the location, the identity, and the stateof WCD's 101. The type of the WCD 101 helps to determine how the WCD 101can be controlled since it can provide the category (e.g. whether theWCD 101 is a cellular telephone, a PDA, a hybrid device, a pocketcomputer, or a personal computer), the make, and the model of the WCD101. GPS or local positioning system may indicate to the IC device 100the location of the WCD's 101 in area 103. The identity of WCD 101 mayprovide identification numbers associated with the WCD 101. As well, theIC device 100 can access information about the user of the WCD 101 bychecking network registration information. For example, if the WCD 101is a cellular phone, the network registration information can access theaccount of the subscriber. The state of the WCD 101 can indicate presenttime functioning of WCD 101 or its components 104-107, such asindicating whether the WCD 101 or components 104-107 are off or on.

Next the IC device 100 can compare the found inventory information tothe standard of use, in process 112. Standard of use data can bepreloaded into the IC device 100 or fed into the IC device 100 from anoutside source. The standard of use data can include various commandcodes and associated circumstances that needed to be met for determiningthe functionality of the WCD 101. The circumstances and the associatedcommands vary with system implementation are later discussed in detail.When such circumstances are met, the IC device 100 can issue theassociated commands in process 113. Typically, the IC device 100 willissue an electronic command to turn on or off the transmitter 106associated with WCD 101. However, the commands could differ according tothe information found during the inventory and the standard of use.

FIGS. 2A-2C illustrate IC device 100 installed in vehicle 200 forlimiting the functionality of a WCD 101 in the vehicle 200 when thatvehicle is switched on and its transmission permits forward or reversemovement. The IC device 100 either can be factory-installed orretrofitted to a vehicle 200 by a dealer or authorized agency. In apreferred embodiment, the IC device 101 is located near the operator ofthe vehicle 200, such as in a door, dashboard, or console on thedrivers' side. The IC device 100 could be connected by wire and/orwireless means both to the ignition and to the transmission of vehicle200. These connections allow activation of the IC device 100 when thevehicle 200 is both running and ‘in gear.’ The IC device 100 is notactivated when the transmission is in ‘Park’ position 210, or, in thecase of a manual transmission vehicle, the emergency or handbrake mustbe in use. When the vehicle 200 is removed from ‘Park’ position 210 to‘Drive’ position 211, or the emergency brake is released, the IC device100 turns on. FIG. 2C illustrates IC device 100 installed above thedriver. The IC device 100 can control WCD 101 located only within apre-determined area 203, such as an area large enough to cover the areaof the operator of the vehicle 200, but so as not to limit or interferewith any other area in the vehicle. Therefore, passengers maintainfunctionality of their WCD's, even when the drivers' WCD 101 isdeactivated.

In the vehicle implementation, the preloaded standard of use data candepend on the laws and the rules where the vehicle is registered. Forexample, the standard of use is meant to prevent the use of cellulartelephones in area 203. As the CI device 100 is activated, itcontinuously or in predetermined intervals scans the area 203 to detectWCD's in process 110 of FIG. 3A. As soon as at least one WCD 101 isfound within area 203, the IC device 100 conducts an inventory inprocess 111. If the detected WCD 101 is a GPS navigation system, whichis not restricted by the standard of use data, the IC device 100disregards it. However if the WCD 101 is a cellular phone 300, the ICdevice 100 checks if the WCD 101 is in use, that is, whether the WCD 101is transmitting. When the transmitter found to be active, the IC device101 attempts to shut it down. Shutting down the transmitter in process301 will prevent the driver in area 203 to use the WCD 101. Thetransmitter can be shutdown in various ways including issuing a commanddisconnecting the power supplied to the transmitter. Alternatively, theIC device 100 can issue a command triggering a process, or program inthe WCD 101 which locks the transmitting functions of the transmitterwith a signal. When such signal is removed, or the WCD 101 is removedfrom area 203, the functions of the transmitter are restores. If the ICdevice 100 is unable to shut down the transmitter, the IC device 100checks if the power to the WCD can be shutdown. If the inventoryinformation indicates that the IC device 100 is unable to control thefunctions of the detected WCD 101, the IC device can generate a warningto the driver signaling an unauthorized use of WCD 101, in process 303.The warning signal can be in various forms, such as, but not limited to,voice command, alarm, flashing light, or the like. After a predeterminedamount of time t 305, the IC device 100 can check if the WCD 101 isstill active and regenerate the warning signal 303 upon non-complianceby the driver. After predetermined number of issued commands n 306, theIC device may notify authorities, in process 304. Alternatively, the ICdevice 100 may issue a command to the WCD 101 to send a message to theservice provider indicating unauthorized WCD 101 use. The serviceprovider can issue a citation and charge its customer a penalty fee onthe monthly bill.

Additional circumstance might be present before determining whether thecellular phone 300 should be shut off. For example, the standard of usemay allow use of WCD 101 while it is connected to a hands freeperipheral. IC device 100 may continuously or in predetermined amount oftime check whether the WCD 101 is connected to a hands-free peripheralin process 310. The driver is able to use his WCD 101 if a hands-freeperipheral device, such as a Bluetooth headset 400, dock 401, orearpiece 402 is connected to the WCD 101. In a Bluetooth headset 400configuration, the IC device 100 can have a sensor capable of detectingBluetooth signals streaming between the WCD 101 and the headset 400. Thedocking station 401 might be built into the vehicle 200 by the vehiclemanufacturer or manufactured by an outside source and retrofitted. Thebuilt in docking station 401 can be electronically connected to the ICdevice 100 directly notifying as an electronic connection with WCD 101is detected. A remote docking station 401, which works similarly toearpiece 402, is detected by the WCD 101 as an electronic connection ismade. The WCD 101 can transmit the presents of a hands-free peripheralto the IC device 100. The physical connection made between thecommunication device and the hands-free peripheral device indicates tothe IC device 100 that a hands-free peripheral is used, enabling thedriver's WCD 101 normal operation.

In order to further ensure the safety of the inhabitants of the vehicle200 and other vehicles nearby, the IC device 100 can issue a command todisable the WCD's keypad when a peripheral device is connected. Thisdisablement is compensated by a voice recognition system. The system canbe associated with the WCD 101, peripheral 400-402, or the vehicle 200.Instead of dialing, sending, ending, or performing another function thatrequires locating and depressing a button on the WCD 101, the driverutilizes a voice recognition unit to verbalize these functions. Voicerecognition technology allows drivers to keep their hands on thesteering wheel and eyes on the road, and simultaneously performfunctions on their WCD 101. An output/input speaker component also isincorporated into the WCD 101 to enable the driver constant verbalinteraction.

Another factor of standard of use can permit continuous access toemergency numbers, whether preset or received. When a WCD 101 keys in anemergency number it is detected by the IC device 100 and the call ispermitted with no interference. The emergency numbers are pre-programmedinto the IC device 100 to recognize the numbers when dialed. Theemergency numbers can include fire station number, police station, 911,or the like.

Removal or disablement of IC device 100 can result in a number ofresponses, including the automatic notification of authorities. Only anauthorized individual or agency can remove it, service it, or modify it.Various approaches can be used to discourage tampering, disablement, orremoval of the IC device 100. If tampered with, the IC device 100triggers an alarm. The alarm is any one or combination of an audiblesound, a flashing light, a dashboard light, or a notification toauthorities. Additionally, the presence of the IC device 100 might closecircuits that enable the vehicle to start and/or enable the transmissionto be moved from ‘Park’ into another gear. Therefore, removal ordestruction of the IC device 100 can prevent the vehicle from operating.In another embodiment, the IC device 100 closes circuits that send asignal to notify the authorities, the vehicle dealership, or anotherauthorized agency. The IC device 100 or the vehicle can be connectedwith a global positioning system (GPS) component or device that providesauthorities or other designated recipients with a continuous locatingsignal if the IC device 100 is removed or tampered.

FIG. 5 illustrates the use of a cellular tower 500 to communicate withthe IC device 100. Other outside transmitting source can be used suchas, but not limited to, radio transmitters, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and tolltag readers. To implement this, the IC device 100 has a transmittingdevice capable of receiving and emitting signals. Once the IC device 100is activated within a vehicle 200, it can receive a transmitted signal505 from the tower 500. The tower signal 500 provides informativesignals that can control the functionality of the WCD. For instance, thesignal 500 might provide local emergency numbers that are accessibleupon dialing a preset emergency code or the like. The tower 500 can alsotransmit to the IC device 100 the local WCD standard of use. Dependenton the jurisdiction of the tower 500, the signal provided might disablethe IC device 100 if cellular telephone usage is permitted whiledriving.

Another use of the tower signal 505 and IC device 100 communication isto notify authorities on unauthorized WCD usage, as described previouslyin process 304 of FIGS. 3A-3B. The IC device 100 can transmit signalcontaining information about the vehicle and operator. A vehicleidentification number can be preloaded to the IC device 100 at themanufacturer. Alternatively, WCD operator information can be obtainedfrom the WCD. In the least, the signals received by authorities throughthe tower 505 can identify the vehicle and the WCD ownership. The tower500 can further communicate and notify authorities 304. Theseauthorities might use the aforementioned techniques of GPS or cellulartower triangulation, in conjunction with WCD's. This is desirable if thevehicle is stolen, the IC device is disabled or removed, or if the userof the WCD needs to be located. To implement this through cellulartowers, plurality of towers continuously or intermittently cantriangulate and locate the WCD, and transmit information about locationand movement of the vehicle to authorities.

Citations can be issued to either the person registered to the detectedvehicle, or to the registrant of the detected WCD located within thevehicle upon unauthorized usage of the WCD or for removing or disablingthe IC device 101. The citation might include a traffic violation, orthe like. Instead the citation can be in a bill form, which can be sentto the registrant of the vehicle and/or to the registrant of the WCD. Assuch, the bill is sent to the residential address of the registrant,billed in conjunction with the WCD, automatically deducted from anaccount registered with a payee, or by a similar means. Briefly, if atoll tag reader is used to communicate with the IC device, the citationcan appear on the monthly toll bill of the registrant.

To control communication in a large area, such as an airplane of FIG. 6,a more powerful sensor or a series of sensors 601-603 are used to detectWCD's 611-614. The sensors communicate and are being controlled by acentral IC device 100. The sensors might be located in the ceiling, thefloor, or any other part of the airplane 600. The IC device 100 can belocated in the cockpit 610 and have controls which are implemented atthe discretion of the pilots. Upon flight initiation the IC device 100is turned on and begins to scan the passenger areas 620 for any presentWCD, as in process 110 of FIG. 7A. The IC device 100 then conductsinventory, in process 111. And compare the inventory to standard of use112.

In an airplane implementation the standard of use might permit the useof WCD's during certain periods of the flight, such as preflight andpost-flight stage. At that time the IC device 100 does not interferewith the detected WCD's 611-614. During the flight period it is desiredto have no transmitting capabilities. The IC device first checks whetherthe WCD's transmitters be shut down, and provides a command to thesensors 601-603 to shut down the transmitters of cooperating WCD's, inprocess 701 of FIG. 7A. This permits the airplane passenger to continueto use the WCD without the transmitting functions. Otherwise, the ICdevice 100 determines whether the WCD's power can be turned off andaccordingly sends a command in process 702. A warning could be issued tothe passenger in a case of a non-cooperating WCD. The warning 703 couldbe sent directly to the WCD, for example, a cellular telephone mayreceive a text message from the IC device 100. Or else, a signal devicecould be incorporated to the passenger sitting are capable of providinga warning in a visual or audio form. After predetermined amount of time705, the IC 100 can check whether the non-cooperating WCD is stillactive and provide additional warnings. If the device remains activeafter pre-selected number of checks 706, the IC device can notify flightpersonnel 704.

The airplane 600 can offer local network communication access during aparticular period of the flight. First, the IC device 100 can determinewhether the detected WCD's are compatible and can be synchronized withthe local network in FIG. 7B. Non compatible WCD's will remain in theturned off stage in process 710. The IC device 100 will check whether itcan turn the transmitters on for the found compatible WCD's, sends acommand to sensors 601-603 to turn on the transmitter 711, andsynchronize the WCD to the local network 712. Otherwise, a passenger canbe notified that he can return the WCD back on and connect to theavailable local network 713. The passenger can be charged for the localnetwork access, provided with a bill at the end of the flight or prepaylocal network usage.

A display screen 800 can be connected to the IC device 100 that providesinventory results to the flight personnel, such as a listing of theWCD's 611-614 detected within the passenger area 620 as illustrated inFIG. 7. The total number of devices detected 801 provides the totalcount of WCD's present in area 620. The total number may vary with time,as passenger turn on and off their WCD's, therefore the IC device 100continuously of periodically scans area 620. The number ofun-cooperating devices 802 and the number of cooperating devices 803provides the WCD's count which can be controlled by the IC device 100. Acomplete detailed device listing 804 can list every device present onboard and the corresponding inventory results. A local positioningsystem can be incorporated in any section of the plane 600 or in thesensors 601-603 capable of determining the seat location of detectedWCD's. The detailed device listing 804 is arranged by the seat numbers805 and lists all the corresponding WCD data such as, but not limited todevice category 802, whether the device is cooperating 807, and whetherthe device can be switched to a local network 808.

More specifically, the IC device 100 detects four WCD's 611-614 whereinWCD 611 is a cellular telephone which functions cannot be controlled bythe IC device 100 and is not capable of connecting to the local network.The owner of the cellular telephone will be asked to shut it down andnot use it for the duration of the flight. WCD 612 is a laptop computerwhich can be controlled by the IC device 100 and is capable ofsynchronizing to the local network. Thus, the IC device 100 will shutdown the transmitter during the restricted period. During the permittedlocal network access period, the IC device 100 will turn the transmitterback on and put the laptop computer on the local network. Laptopcomputer 613, which could be controlled by the IC device 100 but doesnot support the local network, will have its transmitter shut off duringthe whole duration of the flight. The owner of PDA 614 will be asked toturn her device off during the restricted period of the flight and willbe given a notification of available local network access during thepermitted period of the flight, since her device cannot be controlled bythe IC device 100 but can synchronize with the local network.

The IC device 100 can also be incorporated in a building or an eventenvironment where WCD usage should be restricted. Such environment couldbe, but not limited to, a hospital, movie theater, restaurant, church,school, conference centers, casinos, government buildings, governmentevents, and the like. Multiple sensors 901-902 are placed to cover theparticular area 900 needed to be monitored. The IC device 100 is capableof communicating with sensors 901-902 and could be placed within thearea 900 or at a remote location. The IC device 100 can command sensors901-902 to detect WCD's 911-913 present in area 900, in process 110 ofFIG. 10. An inventory is then conducted providing information about thedetected WCD's 911-913 in process 111. The standard of use can preventthe used of a WCD transmitting function at all times in hospital likeenvironment or during particular time in the instance a movie is playingin a movie theater environment. The IC device 100 shuts down thetransmitter or the WCD as shown in FIG. 10. If a WCD is not cooperatingthe IC device 100 can notify and provide owner's information toauthorities in process 1010. The IC device 100 can gain such informationfrom the WCD's service provider. A display screen can be connected tothe IC device 100 to display inventory to area monitoring personnel.

1. A method for communication device management within an airplanecomprising: detecting a plurality of communication devices, wherein saidplurality of communication devices are transmitting at a plurality ofsignal strengths; detecting at least one communication device of saidplurality of communication devices in an area within said airplane,wherein said at least one communication device is associated with auser, and wherein said at least one communication device is adapted tocommunicate with a wireless network; recognizing at least a type or anidentity of said at least one communication device; storing informationregarding said at least one communication device, wherein saidinformation is stored if a signal strength detected from said at leastone communication device is above a predetermined level; controlling atleast one function of said at least one communication device with anintelligent controller comprising a standard of use data; determining ifsaid at least one communication device is authorized to transmit datafrom said airplane; notifying said at least one communication device ofa violation if said at least one communication device is not authorizedto transmit said data; detecting continued transmission from said atleast one communication device in response to said notification;transmitting information about said user to an authority if saidintelligent controller is unable to shut down at least one function ofsaid at least one communication device, wherein said at least onefunction prevents transmission of data from said at least onecommunication device, and wherein said authority is not associated witha service provider.
 2. The method according to claim 1 wherein said atleast one communication device is selected from a group consisting of acellular telephone, a personal computer, a PDA, a pocket computer, and ahybrid device.
 3. The method according to claim 1 further comprising thestep of disabling at least one of a transmitter, a power supply, aprocessor, or a memory associated with said at least one communicationdevice.
 4. The method according to claim 1 further comprising the stepof disrupting incoming signals or transmitting signals associated withsaid at least one communication device.
 5. The method according to claim1 wherein said standard of use data is stored in said intelligentcontroller.
 6. The method according to claim 1 wherein said intelligentcontroller communicates with an outside source.
 7. The method accordingto claim 6 wherein said outside source is selected from a groupconsisting of a cellular tower, a radio transmitter, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth,toll tag readers, and combinations thereof.
 8. The method according toclaim 6 wherein said standard of use data is communicated to saidintelligent controller from said outside source.
 9. The method accordingto claim 6 wherein said intelligent controller further comprises apositioning unit capable of determining the location of said user insaid airplane.
 10. The method according to claim 9 wherein saidintelligent controller communicates said location to said authorityusing said outside source.
 11. The method according to claim 1 whereinsaid intelligent controller provides a warning to said user of said atleast one communication device when said intelligent controller isunable to control said at least one function of said at least onecommunication device.
 12. The method according to claim 11 wherein saidwarning comprises at least one selected from a group consisting of anaudio signal, an alarm, a visual signal, and combinations thereof. 13.The method according to claim 11 wherein said service provider issues acitation to said user of said at least one communication device after apredetermined number of said warnings, wherein said citation is issuedif said predetermined number of said warnings is ignored by said user ofsaid at least one communication device.
 14. The method according toclaim 11 wherein said service provider issues a citation to said userafter a predetermined number of said warnings.
 15. The method accordingto claim 1 wherein said standard of use data only restricts the use of acellular device during a predetermined time within said airplane.